The Meaning of the Museum

museum

 noun a building in which objects of interest or significance
are stored and exhibited

Compact Oxford English Dictionary

Museums Association Definition

'Museums enable people to explore collections for inspiration, learning
and enjoyment. They are institutions that collect, safeguard and make
accessible artefacts and specimens, which they hold in trust for society.'

Adopted: 1998

Museums Association - old definition

'A museum is an institution which collects, documents,
preserves, exhibits and interprets material evidence and associated
information for the public benefit'